In the 1970s, the mental health community noticed patterns of behavior that described people who grew up with parents who misused alcohol. This research has grown to include parental drug use and immature parents. The household in which these children are raised is often chaotic and capricious. The children find that rules are frequently changed, underenforced, or harshly enforced. The child may find themselves caring for the parent or “being the adult” in the family and caring for siblings and parents. This childhood environment tends to create a common pattern of behavior in the adults that emerge from it. Here are some of the most frequent behaviors.
- Impulsive Behavior
- Isolation
- Inconsistency
- Difficulty with romantic relationships
- Hypersensitivity to change
- Perceived victimhood
- Judgmental behavior
- Approval-seeking (People pleaser)
- Unnecessary lying
- Heightened risk of substance abuse
This list is not exhaustive of the common behaviors of ACOA. They are commonly observed behaviors. If you are experiencing any of these behaviors and they are interfering with the life you want to create, there is a path forward to heal these emotional wounds. The path to creating a life worth celebrating isn’t easy. It is possible. Call today to learn more.
